Function disabler device and system

ABSTRACT

A function disabler system includes a personal electronic device having at least one component such as a camera, and a processor having pulsed light communication software enabling receipt and transmission of pulsed light communication signals. The processor additionally includes a hosting customer software application, where the personal electronic device receives at least one pulsed light communication signal within a designated area and the pulsed light communication signal includes an instruction signal which instructs the hosting customer software application to disable the at least one component when the personal electronic device is positioned in the designated area.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.17/182,785 filed Feb. 23, 2021, now U.S. patent Ser. No. 11/200,794issued Dec. 14, 2021, which is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/601,183 filed Oct. 14, 2019, now U.S. patent Ser. No.10/932,337 issued Feb. 23, 2021, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/210,546 filed Dec. 5, 2018, now U.S. patent Ser.No. 10/448,472 issued Oct. 15, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/233,282 filed Aug. 10, 2016, abandoned,which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/203,697 filed Aug. 11, 2015, all of which are incorporated byreference herein in their entireties.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention in general relates to pulsed light communicationand the use of pulsed light communication by individuals and/ororganizations to improve security within designated areas.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the past individuals carrying personal electronic devices such as acellular telephones or smart phones have been able to enter into areaswhere a minimum or higher level of security is desirable.

No device or procedure is known which would prevent an individual fromusing a personal electronic device to record images or sounds within anarea where security is desired, with the exception of temporaryconfiscation of the personal electronic device.

A few of the many areas where security may be desirable include, but arenot necessarily limited to, research and development laboratories,governmental installations, restrooms, locker rooms, dressing rooms, orhealth clubs to name a few, and/or locations within a business wheresensitive, confidential, and/or proprietary business information islocated. In addition, in certain government facilities sensitive orsecret information may be present, necessitating additional securityprocedures to deter or prevent unauthorized recordings by individuals.

It should be noted that cellular telephones are not the only type ofpersonal electronic devices which may provide an individual with thecapability to make an undesirable or unauthorized recording. Additionalpersonal electronic devices may include such items as laptop computers,tablets, cameras, and/or MP3 devices to name a few.

No device or system is known which may selectively disable or disengagetargeted functionality of personal electronic devices, within certainareas where a minimum or higher level of security is desirable, whichalso permits an individual to maintain possession of the personalelectronic device.

The art referred to and/or described above is not intended to constitutean admission that any patent, publication or other information referredto herein is “prior art” with respect to this invention. In addition,this section should not be construed to mean that a search has been madeor that no other pertinent information as defined in 37 C.F.R. § 1.56(a)exists.

All U.S. patents and applications and all other published documentsmentioned anywhere in this application are incorporated herein byreference in their entirety.

Without limiting the scope of the invention, a brief description of someof the claimed embodiments of the invention is set forth below.Additional details of the summarized embodiments of the invention and/oradditional embodiments of the invention may be found in the DetailedDescription of the Invention below.

A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification isprovided for the purposes of complying with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In at least one embodiment the enablement or termination of targetedfunctionality of a personal electronic device in a location wheresecurity is desired may be accomplished through the use of pulsed lightcommunications. Enablement or termination of targeted functionality of apersonal electronic device may be established by the downloading of asoftware application onto the personal electronic device establishingpulsed light communications capabilities. Electronic devices include,but are not necessarily limited to, telephones, cellular telephones,smart phones, tablets, computers, laptops, and/or other electronicdevices as used by an individual.

In at least one embodiment a software application may be directlydownloaded onto the personal electronic device from the globaltelecommunications network. Alternatively the software application maybe downloaded onto the personal electronic device from a wired internetconnection and/or wired or wireless communication with anotherelectronic device, by reading a flash memory device, or by reading of aportable disk or another type of electronic storage media to name a few.

In at least one embodiment, the software application will enable thepersonal electronic device to communicate, transmit, and/or receivepulsed light communication signals or data as embedded withinillumination carrying a pulsed light emitting diode light signal.

In some embodiments, the software application download onto theelectronic device permits an individual to immediately become a customerof embedded pulsed light communication and/or data transfer networkservices. In some embodiments, the software application also includesrecognition software which may include voice or sound recognition,facial recognition, or other biometric recognition for an individual. Insome embodiments a software application enables a customer to speak tothe personal electronic device in order to initiate a transmissionacross the pulsed LED light communication/data system or network,similar to the use of a smart phone, substituting pulsed lightcommunication for cellular transmissions or Wi-Fi transmissions.

In at least one embodiment the personal electronic device will includeat least one camera or other photodetector having the capability todetect pulsed light communication signals. In some embodiments thepersonal electronic device will also include a light source having thecapability to transmit pulsed light communication signals.

Alternatively, a supplemental optical transceiver may be attached to, orin communication with, the personal electronic device to enable pulsedlight communications. The supplemental optical transceiver may includeat least one camera or other photodetector, and/or an optional focusingelement, where the photodetector has the capability to detect pulsedlight communication signals. The supplemental optical transceiver mayalso include a light source having the capability to transmit pulsedlight communication signals.

In some embodiments, the personal electronic device and/or thesupplemental optical transceiver will also include sufficient featuresand software in order to recognize voice commands, audible signals orsounds, and/or commands communicated by transmission of a signal,including text or symbols.

In some embodiments the personal electronic device and/or thesupplemental optical transceiver includes a processor which mayelectrically recognize a pulsed light communication signal, anotherelectronic signal, a sound, or a light as converted into an electricalsignal, in order to translate and communicate the information, data, orsounds within the signal to an individual. The processor may also encodea responsive communication signal for transmission through the lightsource, for transmission of a reply visible light communication, toestablish a two-way duplex communication signals using visual light orembedded pulsed light communication.

It should be noted that in many embodiments that the visual light orembedded pulsed light communication described herein is comprised of aplurality of rapid flashes of light having a frequency which is notobservable to the unaided eyes of an individual, where the rapid flashesof light may be organized into data packets and/or communications. Therapid flashes of light occur at a frequency which is also undetectableby the human eye. In addition, the wavelength of the visible light isnot in the infrared spectrum which may cause physical damage to anindividual's eyes.

In some embodiments a software application may be easily downloaded ontoan electronic device through the use of embedded pulsed lightcommunications or other downloading techniques. Upon completion of thesoftware download onto a personal electronic device, an individual mayimmediately begin using pulsed light as a communication or data carriermedium for cellular telephone calls, text messaging, emails, or othertypes of communication. Embedded pulsed light communication providesaugmented communication or data transmission, as an alternative to radiosignal waves, Wi-Fi signals, Bluetooth communication signals and/orcellular communication signals as previously used by the identicalpersonal electronic device.

In some embodiments, a photodetector and/or LED light source may beintegral to the supplemental optical transceiver, and the supplementaloptical transceiver may be releasably connected to a port of a personalelectronic device in a manner similar to a portable credit card slidereader, which may be inserted into a port of a smart phone.

In some embodiments, a portable supplemental optical transceiverassembly having a photodetector and/or LED light source additionallyincludes suitable electronic circuitry to convert optical pulsed lightsignals into electrical signals. The portable supplemental opticaltransceiver assembly may be used to communicate, receive, and processembedded pulsed light signals. The portable supplemental opticaltransceiver assembly may be an additional piece of equipment oraccessory for use by an individual.

In some embodiments, the supplemental optical transceiver assembly isconstructed and arranged for connection to a port of a personalelectronic device. The supplemental optical transceiver may includesufficient sensitivity and amplification capabilities, includingtransmitters, receivers, and LED drivers, to establish and maintainconnectivity, communication, and data transmission through an embeddedpulsed visible light communication network.

In some embodiments, a facility administrator, retail provider, schooladministrator, or property owner to name a few, which will be referredcollectively to as a hosting customer, may automatically download, orassist in the downloading of a customized hosting customer softwareapplication onto a personal electronic device of a visitor, employee,contractor, or other individual who is present within the hostingcustomer facility or location.

In some embodiments, the customized hosting customer softwareapplication on the personal electronic device may automatically limit orrestrict features of the electronic device or smart phone when thepersonal electronic device is located within certain designatedlocations within a facility. One or more functions of the personalelectronic device may be disabled by the customized hosting customersoftware application when the personal electronic device is locatedwithin a secure area, a restroom, a research and development laboratory,a bookkeeping location, and/or other locations within a hosting customerfacility.

In some embodiments, the termination, limitation and/or restriction ofaccess to one or more components of a personal electronic device withincertain designated areas of a hosting customer facility may beparticularly important in sensitive governmental locations.

In some embodiments in certain areas or locations within a facility orstructure of a hosting customer, the illumination within the area orlocation also include embedded pulsed light communications or signals.

In some embodiments the embedded pulsed light communications or signalsas broadcast from an light emitting diode light source will broadcastcommand signals to be received by the photodetector, detector, orreceiver of the personal electronic device and processed by thecustomized hosting customer software application, which in turn willtemporarily disable a function or component of the personal electronicdevice. The component of the personal electronic device may be a camera,a voice recording function, a video recording function, or an audio orvisual file transfer to name a few of the many functions which may bedisabled, thereby preventing an unauthorized photograph or recording.

In some embodiments, the feature or function disable command or signalas transmitted by embedded pulsed light signals within illumination andas received by the personal electronic device, may prohibit a livecellular phone connection or conversation, text message, and/or emailcommunication in certain restricted or prohibited areas of a hostingcustomer facility. In some embodiments, a personal electronic device maytherefore not be used as a recording or surveillance tool or device.

In some embodiments the disable transmission feature may be communicatedto a personal electronic device through a supplemental opticaltransceiver assembly. In other embodiments the disable transmissionfeature may be received by the personal electronic device by detectionof the embedded pulsed light communication signal by the integral cameraor photodetector on the personal electronic device.

In some embodiments the disabled transmission feature as communicated toa personal electronic device will be automatic when the device entersinto a designated area, and may not be immediately recognized orrecognizable by an individual.

In certain embodiments, the disable transmission feature as communicatedto the personal electronic device will prohibit the initiation and/orthe operation of components or features which have been disabled, suchfeatures or components including, be not being necessarily limited to, acamera, microphone, a video recorder, or other recorder function ormechanism preventing recording and transmission of images and/or soundrecordings.

In some embodiments the connectable supplemental optical transceiverassembly may be reduced in size dimensions to the size of a postagestamp or credit card swipe or reader. In some embodiments theconnectable supplemental optical transceiver may include a connectionmember, for interface and/or insertion into a receiving port of apersonal electronic device such as a smart or cellular telephone.

In some embodiments, the connectable supplemental optical transceivermay include equipment and/or devices such as LED's, cameras,microphones, recorders, photodetectors or flashing illumination sourcesto name a few.

In some embodiments the supplemental optical transceiver may be used toamplify and/or to be temporarily attached to personal electronic devicesor equipment, which would enhance a desired feature or capability of thepersonal electronic device. For example, a supplemental opticaltransceiver may include electrical components to focus and enhanceavailable lighting functions of the personal electronic device toimprove performance of a camera.

In an alternative embodiment, a focusing element may be used to enhanceor amplify receipt of light transmitted from a remote location asdetected by the photodetector. Alternatively, the supplemental opticaltransceiver may include a more robust camera capable of capturing imageshaving an enhanced resolution.

In other embodiments, the supplemental optical transceiver may includeLED light illumination sources to enhance the flash capabilities of theelectronic device to improve camera functionality.

In some embodiments, any number of supplemental optical transceivers maybe provided, having unique functionality of components or features whichmay be readily interchangeable by an individual dependent upon therequirements of a particular situation or environmental condition. Insome embodiments the supplemental optical transceiver will include asingle function enhancement capability. In other embodiments thesupplemental optical transceiver will include more than one functionenhancement capability.

In alternative embodiments, the supplemental optical transceiver mayinclude one or more software applications in order to permit anindividual to easily adjust the performance of the components orfeatures of the supplemental optical transceiver.

In some embodiments an individual may desire to enhance the performanceof an electronic device to increase the effective signal transmission orreception capabilities. In some embodiments, an individual may employthe use of a supplemental transmission/reception amplification devicewhich may be an accessory, which is plugged into a port of theelectronic device. In some embodiments, the supplementaltransmission/reception device will augment the capabilities of theelectronic device such as a cellular telephone or smart phone.

In some embodiments the supplemental transmission/reception device mayinclude an electronic cord and/or detector for interface with a port ofan electronic device to establish an electrical transfer link betweenthe supplemental transmission/reception device and electronic device.

In some embodiments, the supplemental transmission/reception deviceenhances the performance of the engineering limitations or capabilitiesof the electronic device. In some embodiments the supplementaltransmission/reception device includes an electrical power source orbattery.

In some embodiments, the supplemental transmission/reception device mayappear and be of the approximate size of a periscope pencil eraser whichincludes one or more focusing mirrors which project upwardly instead ofstraight out from an electric device. In alternative embodiments, thesupplemental transmission/reception device may include a focusing lens.

In some embodiments, the supplemental optical transceiver is notrestricted to the use of LED lighting elements, cameras, photodetectors,microphones, recorders, video recorders, or other devices, and mayadditionally include an almost infinite variety of devices orfunctionalities including magnetic strip readers, credit card readers,voice or facial recognition features, retinal scanners or fingerprintscanners to name a few.

In some embodiments, the functionality or sensitivity of a component ofa personal electronic device, such as a camera, may be satisfactory.However, a need may arise for an enhanced photodetector or photodiodecomponent, flash, or other lighting component, to provide focusedillumination or focused collection of illumination including theembedded pulsed LED light communication signals or data.

In some embodiments, environmental conditions may necessitate the use ofan enhanced or focused transmission or receiving capabilities for aphotodetector, photodiode or LED transmission elements or components ofa personal electronic device or for use of a supplemental opticaltransceiver.

In some embodiments the supplemental optical transceiver may be attachedto the back, or about the perimeter of, a personal electronic device, toprovide a streamlined appearance while simultaneously enhancing thefunctionality and/or flexibility of the electronic device.

In some embodiments any number of different supplemental opticaltransceivers may be utilized with a personal electronic device, eachsupplemental optical transceiver having unique performanceconsiderations which may be used to enhance the flexibility, performanceand/or utility of an electronic device to an individual.

In some embodiments an electronic device such as a cellular telephoneincludes a light emitting diode as a light source and/or flash diode.The software application providing embedded pulsed light communicationto the personal electronic device may also enhance the capabilities ofthe electronic device to include flash recognition and transmissionfeatures.

In some embodiments, a bubble reflective surface may be positionedproximate to, or in covering relationship over, the LED light sourceand/or flash diode. The bubble or other reflective device may focuslight emitted from the light emitting diodes for use of the embeddedpulsed light communication/data transfer system. In some embodiments thebubble or other reflective device may focus light in an upward directionas opposed to a diffuse transmission direction.

In some embodiments, a reflective or focusing surface may be disposedproximate to a camera which may snorkel along the side or back of theelectronic device to the top, or to another location on the electronicdevice, to enhance the performance of the detection capabilities of thecamera to receive illumination and/or embedded pulsed lightcommunication signals, which may include data transmissions.

In some embodiments, the transmission of recorded voice or sounds, ascommunicated over an embedded pulsed light communication signal mayoccur at relatively low transmission rates or speeds. In someembodiments the transmission of text messages may also generally occurat a low transmission rate or speed.

In some embodiments, alternative configurations of supplementaltransmission/reception devices may be used to enhance the performancecapabilities of an electronic device to provide a desired communicationor transmission speed or rate. For example, transmission of textmessages, or surfing the Internet, may require devices having differentconfigurations to provide the desired level of performance.

In some embodiments, the supplemental transmission/reception device isplugged into a port of an electronic device such as a cellular telephoneor smart phone in order to provide high-speed communications and datatransfer. In some embodiments the configuration of the supplementaltransmission/reception device enhances the sensitivity of a photodiodeand/or the camera as incorporated into the electronic device.

In some embodiments, the supplemental transmission/reception device usedto augment performance of an existing function of an electronic devicemay be releasably secured to the side, back, top, or bottom of theelectronic device.

In some embodiments, the supplemental transmission/reception device willbe constructed and arranged to be plugged into the electronic device asan accessory.

In some embodiments the supplemental transmission/reception device maybe integral to the electronic device or may be incorporated into aprotective case, cover or carrier for the electronic device.

In a first alternative embodiment, a function disabler system comprisesa personal electronic device, the personal electronic device comprisingat least one component, the personal electronic device furthercomprising a processor comprising pulsed light communication software,the pulsed light communication software being constructed and arrangedto enable receipt and transmission of pulsed light communicationsignals, the pulsed light communication signals having a wavelength inthe visible spectrum, the processor further comprising hosting customersoftware, the at least one pulsed light communication signals comprisingan instruction signal, the hosting customer software being constructedand arranged to process the instruction signal, where the hostingcustomer software processes the instruction signal and disables the atleast one component when the personal electronic device is positioned ina designated secure area.

In a second alternative embodiment according to the first embodiment,the at least one component is selected from the group consisting of acamera, microphone, speaker, photodetector, light source, LED lightsource, text message communication device, video recording device, andaudio recording device and combinations thereof.

In a third alternative embodiment according to the second embodiment,the function disabler system further comprises a supplemental opticaltransceiver.

In a fourth alternative embodiment according to the third embodiment,the personal electronic device further comprises a receiving port.

In a fifth alternative embodiment according to the fourth embodiment,the supplemental optical receiver further comprises a connection member.

In a sixth alternative embodiment according to the fifth embodiment, thesupplemental optical transceiver comprises a supplemental receivingport.

In a seventh alternative embodiment according to the sixth embodiment,the function disabler system further comprises a supplementaltransmission device and the supplemental transmission device comprises asupplemental connection member which is constructed and arranged forengagement to the supplemental receiving port.

In an eighth alternative embodiment according to the third embodiment,the supplemental optical transceiver further comprises a focusingelement.

In a ninth alternative embodiment according to the third embodiment, thefunction disabler system further comprises a supplemental transmissiondevice.

In a tenth alternative embodiment, according to the ninth embodiment,the supplemental transmission device comprises an electrical cord.

In an eleventh alternative embodiment according to the tenth alternativeembodiment, the electrical cord is resiliently flexible.

In a twelfth alternative embodiment according to the second alternativeembodiment the personal electronic device further comprises a focusingelement.

In a thirteenth alternative embodiment according to the twelfthalternative embodiment, the personal electronic device comprises a back,a side, and a top, wherein the supplemental optical transceiver isengaged to one of the back, the side, and the top of the personalelectronic device.

In a fourteenth alternative embodiment according to the firstalternative embodiment the function disabler system further comprises asupplemental transmission device.

In a fifteenth alternative embodiment according to the fourteenthalternative embodiment the supplemental transmission device comprises anelectrical cord.

In a sixteenth alternative embodiment according to the fifteenthalternative embodiment the electrical cord is resiliently flexible.

In a seventeenth alternative embodiment according to the fourteenthalternative embodiment the supplemental transmission device comprises atleast one supplemental component, the supplemental component beingselected from the group consisting of a camera, microphone, speaker,photodetector, light source, LED light source, text messagecommunication device, video recording device, and audio recording deviceand combinations thereof.

In an eighteenth alternative embodiment according to the secondalternative embodiment the function disabler system further comprises atleast one light emitting diode light fixture.

In a nineteenth alternative embodiment according to the eighteenthalternative embodiment the at least one light emitting diode lightfixture generates the pulsed light communication signals and theinstruction signal.

In a twentieth alternative embodiment according to the nineteenthalternative embodiment the at least one light emitting diode lightfixture comprises a light fixture identifier, the light fixtureidentifier being embedded in the pulsed light communication signals orthe instruction signal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of one alternative embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 2 depicts a block diagram of one alternative embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 3 depicts a block diagram of one alternative embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 4 depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of asupplemental optical transceiver for engagement to a personal electronicdevice of the invention;

FIG. 5 depicts an environmental view of one alternative embodiment ofthe use of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In at least one embodiment, the function disabler device and system isindicated by the numeral 10. In some embodiments the function disablerdevice and system 10 is used with a personal electronic device 12. Ingeneral, the function disabler device and system 10 is used to terminateand/or disable a feature of the personal electronic device 12 when thepersonal electronic device 12 has been transported into an area orlocation where security is desired.

In general, the function disabler device and system 10 may be customizedto target individual and select functions or features of a personalelectronic device 12, which may be software programs stored within, orcomponents of, the personal electronic device 12.

The function disabler device and system 10 also includes the use of anembedded pulsed light communication network/system generally referred toby the numeral 14.

The embedded pulsed light communication network/system 14 will begenerally described herein, however, additional detail concerning thefeatures, functions, components, and operation of a pulsed lightcommunication network/system 14 are identified within the followingUnited States Patent Applications and United States Patents which areincorporated by reference herein in their entireties. The United StatesPatent Applications and United States Patents incorporated by referenceherein in their entireties include the following: Ser. Nos. 15/168,939;15/076,093; 15/042,830; 15/005,305; 15/013,131; 15/042,843; 14/817,411;14/597,648; 14/597,518; 14/557,705; 14/546,218; 14/537,470; 14/288,917;14/290,152; 14/270,670; 14/207,934; 12/126,469; 12/126,647; 12/126,342;12/032,908; 11/433,979; 62/203,697; 61/927,663; 61/927,638; 61/867,731;61/819,861; 61/778,672; 61/165,546; 61/432,949; 60/931,611; 60/322,166;60/248,894; U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,265,112; 9,258,864; 9,294,198; 9,100,124;9,246,594; 9,252,883; 9,363,018; 8,886,045; 8,751,390; 8,902,076;8,593,299; 8,571,411; 8,331,790; 8,744,267; 8,543,505; 8,890,773;8,188,879; 8,687,965; 8,188,878; 7,046,160; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,879,263.

In general, the function disabler device and system 10 begins with thedownloading of a pulsed light interface software application generallyreferred to by reference numeral 16. The pulsed light interface softwareapplication 16 is downloaded onto the personal electronic device 12.Conventional downloading techniques including but not limited to the useof the global telecommunications network, a wired internet connectionand/or wired or wireless communication with another electronic device,by reading a flash memory device, or by reading of a portable disk oranother type of electronic storage media to name a few may be used tostore the pulsed light interface software application 16 on the personalelectronic device 12.

In general, the personal electronic device 12 may be any communicationdevice including but not limited to telephones, cellular telephones,smart phones, tablets, computers, laptop computers, and/or otherelectronic devices as used by an individual.

In general, the downloading of the pulsed light interface softwareapplication 16 onto the personal electronic device 12 establishesconnectivity and communication with the embedded pulsed lightcommunication network/system 14.

In at least one embodiment, the pulsed light interface softwareapplication 16 will enable the personal electronic device 12 tocommunicate, transmit, and/or receive pulsed light communication signalsor data 18 as embedded within illumination emitted from a light emittingdiode light fixture 20.

In some embodiments, the pulsed light interface software application 16,as downloaded onto the personal electronic device 12, permits anindividual to immediately become a customer of embedded pulsed lightcommunication and/or data transfer network services. In someembodiments, the pulsed light interface software application 16 alsoincludes recognition software, which may include voice or soundrecognition, facial recognition, fingerprint, retinal, or otherbiometric recognition for an individual.

In some embodiments the pulsed light interface software application 16enables a customer to speak to the personal electronic device 12 inorder to initiate a transmission/communication across the pulsed LEDlight communication/data system or network 14, similar to the use of asmart phone, substituting pulsed light communication signals 18 forcellular transmissions or Wi-Fi transmissions.

In some embodiments, the function disabler device and system 10 utilizesa supplemental optical transceiver 22 which may be electricallyconnected to the personal electronic device 12.

In some embodiments the personal electronic device 12 and/or thesupplemental optical transceiver 22 includes a processor which mayelectrically recognize a pulsed light communication signal 18, anotherelectronic signal, a sound, or a light as converted into an electricalsignal, in order to translate and communicate thetransmission/communication to an individual. The processor may alsoencode a responsive communication signal for transmission through thelight source, for either the personal electronic device 12 orsupplemental optical receiver 22, for transmission of a reply visiblelight communication signal 18, to establish a two-way duplexcommunication using visual light or embedded pulsed light communication.

It should be noted that in many embodiments that the visual light orembedded pulsed light communication signals 18 described herein arecomprised of a plurality of rapid flashes of light having a frequencywhich is not observable to the unaided eyes of an individual, where therapid flashes of light may be organized into data packets and/orcommunications. The rapid flashes of light occur at a frequency which isnot detectable by the human eye. In addition, the wavelength of thevisible light is in the visible spectrum which functions asillumination. The wavelength of the visible light is not in the infraredspectrum, which may cause physical damage to the eyes of an individual.

In some embodiments, upon completion of the download of the pulsed lightinterface software application 16 onto a personal electronic device 12,an individual may immediately begin using pulsed light as acommunication or data carrier medium for cellular telephone calls, textmessaging, emails, or other types of communication. Embedded pulsedlight communication provides augmented communication or datatransmission, as an alternative to radio signal waves, Wi-Fi signals,Bluetooth communication signals and/or cellular communication signals aspreviously used by the identical personal electronic device 12.

In at least one embodiment the personal electronic device 12 willinclude at least one camera 24 or other photodetector 26 having thecapability to detect pulsed light communication signals 18. In someembodiments the personal electronic device 12 will also include a lightsource 28 having the capability to transmit pulsed light communicationsignals 18.

In some embodiments, the supplemental optical transceiver 22 may bedirectly attached to, or in communication with, the personal electronicdevice 12 to enable pulsed light communications 18. The supplementaloptical transceiver 22 may include at least one camera 24 or otherphotodetector 26, an LED light source 30, and/or an optional focusingelement 32, where the photodetector 26 has the capability to detectpulsed light communication signals 18.

In some embodiments, the personal electronic device 12 and/or thesupplemental optical transceiver 22 will also include sufficientfeatures and software in order to recognize voice commands, audiblesignals or sounds, and/or commands communicated by transmission of asignal, including text or symbols.

In some embodiments, a photodetector 26 and/or LED light source 30 maybe integral to the supplemental optical transceiver 22 which in turn maybe releasably connected to a port 35 of a personal electronic device 12in a manner similar to a portable credit card slide reader, as insertedinto a receiving port 35 of device such as a smart phone.

In some embodiments, a portable supplemental optical transceiver 22having a photodetector 26 and/or LED light source 30 may additionallyinclude suitable electronic circuitry to convert optical pulsed lightsignals 18 into electrical signals. The portable supplemental opticaltransceiver 22 may be an accessory, and used in conjunction with thepersonal electronic device 12 to communicate, receive, and processembedded pulsed light signals 18.

In some embodiments, the supplemental optical transceiver 22 may includesufficient sensitivity and amplification capabilities, includingtransmitters, receivers, and LED drivers, to establish and maintainconnectivity, communication, and data transmission through an embeddedpulsed visible light communication network/system 14.

In some embodiments, a facility administrator, retail provider, schooladministrator, or property owner to name a few, which will be referredcollectively to as a hosting customer 36, may automatically download, orassist in the downloading of a customized hosting customer softwareapplication 38 onto a personal electronic device 12 of a visitor,employee, contractor, or other individual who is present within thehosting customer facility or location.

In some embodiments, the customized hosting customer softwareapplication 38 on the personal electronic device 12 may automaticallylimit or restrict the operation of features of the electronic device 12,or smart phone, when the personal electronic device 12 is located withincertain designated locations within a facility. One or more functions ofthe personal electronic device 12 may be disabled by the customizedhosting customer software application 38 when the personal electronicdevice 12 is located within a secure area, a restroom, a research anddevelopment laboratory, a bookkeeping location, and/or other locationswithin a hosting customer facility.

In some embodiments, the customized hosting customer softwareapplication 38 is targeted to only disable the operation of certaincomponents or functions of a personal electronic device 12 for a limitedduration of time, when the personal electronic device is present withina restricted location.

In some embodiments, the pulsed light communication signals 18 may beformed of one or a plurality of data packets. Each packet or combinationof signals may be assigned a character, number, or other information asdata within memory which may be integral to a controller which in turnmay be integral to a light emitting diode light fixture 20, or apersonal electronic device 12, using the pulsed light interface softwareapplication 16. Individual packets of grouped embedded pulsed lightsignals may be combined into a message, word, and/or character forprocessing and/or translation by the pulsed light interface softwareapplication 16 on the personal electronic device 12, or the controllerintegral to the light emitting diode light fixture 20.

In some embodiments, any number of relay light emitting diode lightfixtures 20 may be sequentially positioned between the communicationsystem and the personal electronic device 12. Each pulsed lightcommunication signal 18 may therefore be passed from the first LED lightsources 28 of the first light emitting diode light fixture 20, to asecond photodetector 26 integral to a second light emitting diode lightfixture 20, for successive transmission to additional photodetectors 26of subsequent light emitting diode light fixtures 20, for transmissionto a final light emitting diode light fixture 20 which is proximate to apersonal electronic device 12. The pulsed light communication signals 18may therefore be processed sequentially through successive relay sitesto a personal electronic device 12.

In this regard, each origin, intermediate, and final relay site or lightemitting diode light fixture 20, as well as each personal electronicdevice 12, is required to have an individual, device specific, storedidentifier which may be formed of one or more combinations of pulsed LEDlight signals, in order to identify a specific device or light fixtureaddress. The addresses for each and every site, light emitting diodelight fixture 20 and/or personal electronic device 12, may be storedwithin the memory for each respective controller.

In some embodiments, LVXR is the acronym for light visually transmittedrepeater. The LVXR device will be used as a light signal repeatersimilar to that in radio repeater towers. A pulsed light communicationsignal 18 is received, processed for accuracy, routing, etc., and thenrebroadcast/rerouted to the next light emitting diode light fixture 20until the pulsed light communication signal 18 is proximate to thepersonal electronic device 12. Visual light will go into the LVXR deviceas packets, be compared with other identifiers, until there are at leasttwo identical identifiers. If the two identifiers are not identical,then the pulsed light communication signal 18 will be sent out in thenext step closer to a destination for proper routing. Each device orfixture will receive packeted data via embedded pulsed visual lightform, along with other possible augmented communication mediums, inorder to process the data packet and then pass the data packet andinformation to the next LVXR. This procedure will establish an embeddedpulsed light communication system or network 14 from one location toanother, for the rebroadcasting of embedded pulsed visual light signals18 from one visual light transceiver to another, for the purpose ofcreating an optical data communication link over an appreciable,practical distance with accessibility along either all or part of thedistance using visual light transmitting/receiving apparatus such aslight emitting diode light fixtures 20.

In some embodiments, data may be sent from one location to another usinga Global Positioning System (GPS) information as the data packetaddressing information, hence connecting the data packet routinginformation to a geographic location instead of a cyber location. Insome embodiments both a GPS address as well as a cyber address isutilized as identifiers in a data packet.

In some embodiments the incorporation of Global Positioning System (GPS)information into the data packet is similar to technology described inU.S. Pat. No. 4,785,463, the entire contents of which is expresslyincorporated herein by reference. GPS positioning uses one or morecoordinate systems, such as World Geodetic System 1984 (WGS84), toprovide a reference frame, allowing every point on earth to be codedwith a unique GPS location.

In some embodiments, a data packet may include GPS location header bitsthat include the packet's destination address in GPS coordinates. Thedata packet may further include GPS location trailer bits that includethe packet's origin address in GPS coordinates. The data packet mayfurther include the address in GPS coordinates of the opticaltransceiver that most recently transmitted the packet (the last knowntransmission address, or LTA), as will be described in more detailbelow. The data packet further includes the data to be transmitted, andmay include any other bits of information determined to be necessary forsuccessful transmission of data, such as error detection bits, asunderstood by a person of ordinary skill in the art.

Routing data packets from one location to another location can beaccomplished using GPS location information which tags data packetshaving a geographic location instead of a cyber-location. Such anembodiment eliminates the need for any later geographic locationtranslation because a data packet starts with geographic source anddestination information. This simplifies locating the destination of thedata packet.

In some embodiments, each data packet is assigned a GPSorigin/destination address as it passes through the networkinfrastructure. The data packet is always searching for the next closestGPS address location. Each stationary (or static) optical transceiver,and some dynamic optical transceivers, within a network will bedesignated with a GPS location number. As a data packet passes throughthe network, it is routed by the optical transceivers, with theirinternal processors, to the next physically closer optical transceiverwithin the network. If another optical transceiver is within receivingrange, or is connected with another form of communication medium, thatoptical transceiver receives the data packet. The optical transceiver'sinternal processor compares its internal GPS location address (ILA) tothe data packet's GPS destination address and the optical transceiver'slast known transmission address (LTA) stored within the data packet. Ifthe ILA code is closer to the data packet destination address than theLTA code stored within the data packet, the optical transceiver'sprocessor inserts its ILA code into the data packet as the new LTA codeand then repeats transmission of the entire data packet with the updatedLTA code.

The network continues this process until the data packet reaches thedestination optical transceiver, at which point the data packet istransmitted to the personal electronic device 12.

This means each user of the embedded pulsed light communicationnetwork/system 14 may declare one or more static positions and have adynamic position at any time. The system will track the identifier ofthe pulsed light interface software application 16 of the personalelectronic device 12 as a user passes LVXRs, similar to that of cellphones in relation to their towers. Each user of the embedded pulsedlight communication network/system 14 may determine at any point whathis/her static address is. A static address may be an office, a home,the living room, or other room. When a user leaves his/her staticaddress to traverse through the infrastructure, he/she then becomesdynamic. If a packet of data is transmitted to his or her staticaddress, it will then be informed as to where his/her dynamic address isby using similar schemes as that of cell phones.

In some embodiments, a hosting customer 36 may program a customizedhosting customer software application 38 to be embedded within one ormore pulsed light communication signals 18, for downloading onto apersonal electronic device 12. The downloading of the hosting customersoftware application 38 onto the personal electronic device 12 may beautomatic. In some embodiments, within a restricted area the hostingcustomer software 38 will issue an instruction or command signal asembedded within one or more pulsed light communication signals 18, tocommunicate a feature/function disabling communication 40. A hostingcustomer 36 will be able to identify the applicable light emitting diodelight fixtures 20 within the restricted area through the unique andindividual device identifiers associated with fixture.

In some embodiments, the light emitting diode light fixtures 20 within arestricted area will continuously be emitting the feature/functiondisabling communication 40 as embedded within illumination for receiptby the hosting customer software application 38 on the personalelectronic device 12. The receipt by the personal electronic device 12of the feature/function disabling communication 40 will terminate theoperation and/or use of a feature such as a camera, microphone, textingfunction, or recording function to name a few within the restrictedarea.

In some embodiments, when a personal electronic device 12 is transportedout of a restricted area the pulsed light communication signals 18 asembedded within illumination will not include the feature/functiondisabling communication 40, whereupon the features/functions such as thecamera, microphone, texting messaging function, or recording functionwill return to an active status for use by an individual.

The component of the personal electronic device 12 being disabled mayalso be a voice recording function, a video recording function, an audioor visual file transfer, a live cellular phone connection orconversation, and/or an email communication may be prohibited to name afew of the many functions which may be disabled, thereby preventing anunauthorized photograph, recording, or communication.

Many other types of components, functions, or features of an electronicdevice 12 may be disabled in addition to the components, functions, orfeatures identified herein. In some embodiments, a personal electronicdevice 12 may therefore not be available for use as a recording orsurveillance tool or device by an individual.

It should be noted that the features, functions, or operation of thepersonal electronic device 12 in some embodiments will only be disabledwhen the personal electronic device 12 is present within a restricted orsecure area within a hosting customer 36 facility.

In some embodiments, the enablement or termination of targetedfunctionality of a personal electronic device 12 may be establishedand/or regulated by the feature/function disabling communication 40 asprogrammed within the customer hosting software application 38.

In some embodiments, the termination, limitation and/or restriction ofaccess to one or more components of a personal electronic device 12within certain designated or restricted areas of a hosting customerfacility may be particularly important in sensitive governmentallocations.

In some embodiments, embedded pulsed light communications or signals 18will continue to be emitted by light emitting diode light fixtures 20which are located within certain restricted areas or locations of afacility or structure of a hosting customer 36. In some embodiments, thepersonal electronic device 12 may continue to receive information and/orembedded pulsed light communication signals 18 within the restrictedarea or location, however, transmission and/or recording of information,and the transmission of any communication or information as embeddedpulsed light communication signals 18 may be prohibited within thedesignated restricted or secure area.

In some embodiments the embedded pulsed light communication or signals18, as broadcast from an light emitting diode light fixture 20 may alsoinclude command signals to be received by the photodetector, detector,or receiver of the personal electronic device 12 and/or supplementaloptical transceiver 22, as generated by the customized hosting customersoftware application 38.

In some embodiments the feature/function disabling communication 40 maybe communicated to a personal electronic device 12 through asupplemental optical transceiver assembly 22. In other embodiments, thefeature/function disabling communication 40 may be received by thepersonal electronic device 12 by detection of the embedded pulsed lightcommunication signal 18 by a camera or photodetector which may beintegral to the personal electronic device 12.

In some embodiments the feature/function disabling communication 40 ascommunicated to a personal electronic device 12 will be automaticallyreceived when the personal electronic device 12 enters into a restrictedor secure area. In some embodiments an individual may not immediatelyrecognize that a function/feature or operation of the personalelectronic device 12 has been temporarily disabled or interrupted.

In some embodiments, the connectable supplemental optical transceiverassembly 22 may have any size dimension as desired and in someembodiments may have reduced size dimensions to be similar in size to apostage stamp or credit card swipe reader. In some embodiments, theconnectable supplemental optical transceiver 22 may include a connectionmember 34, for interface and/or insertion into a receiving port 35 of apersonal electronic device 12 such as a smart or cellular telephone.

In some embodiments, the connectable supplemental optical transceiver 22may include equipment and/or devices such as LED's 30, cameras 24,microphones 46, recorders, photodetectors 26 or flashing illuminationsources to name a few. In some embodiments, the supplemental opticaltransceiver 22 may be used to amplify and/or to be temporarily attachedto personal electronic device 12, which would enhance a desired featureor function of the personal electronic device 12. For example, asupplemental optical transceiver 22 may include electrical components tofocus and enhance available lighting functions of the personalelectronic device 12 to improve performance of a camera 24.

In an alternative embodiment, a focusing element 32 may be used toenhance or amplify receipt of light transmitted from a remote locationas detected by the photodetector 26. Alternatively, the supplementaloptical transceiver 22 may include a more robust camera 24 capable ofcapturing images having an enhanced resolution.

In other embodiments, the supplemental optical transceiver 22 mayinclude LED light illumination sources 30 to enhance the flashcapabilities of the personal electronic device 12 to improve camerafunctionality.

In some embodiments, any number of supplemental optical transceivers 22may be readily interchangeable for use with a personal electronic device12, where each supplemental optical transceiver 22 provides improved orunique functionality of components or features, dependent upon therequirements of a particular situation or environmental condition.

In alternative embodiments, the supplemental optical transceiver 22 mayinclude one or more software applications in order to permit anindividual to easily adjust the operational performance of thecomponents or features of the personal electronic device 12.

In some embodiments an individual may desire to enhance the performanceof a personal electronic device 12 to increase the effective signaltransmission or reception capabilities. In some embodiments, anindividual may employ the use of a supplemental transmission/receptionamplification device 48, as an accessory, which is inserted into areceiving port 50 of the supplemental optical transceiver 22 or personalelectronic device 12. In some embodiments, the supplementaltransmission/reception amplification device 48 will augment thecapabilities of the personal electronic device 12.

In some embodiments the supplemental transmission/receptionamplification device 48 may establish and interface with a receivingport 50 in order to establish an electrical transfer link between thesupplemental transmission/reception amplification device 48 and thesupplemental optical transceiver 22 and/or personal electronic device12. In some embodiments the supplemental transmission/receptionamplification device 48 includes an electrical power source or battery.

In some embodiments, the supplemental transmission/receptionamplification device 48 may be similar in appearance to, and be theapproximate size of, a periscope pencil eraser which includes one ormore focusing mirrors which project upwardly instead of horizontallyfrom a personal electric device 12. In alternative embodiments, thesupplemental transmission/reception amplification device 48 may includea focusing element or lens 32.

In some embodiments, the supplemental optical transceiver 22 is notrestricted to the use of LED lighting elements 30, cameras 24,photodetectors 26, microphones 46, recorders, video recorders, or otherdevices, and may additionally include an almost infinite variety ofdevices or functionalities including magnetic strip readers, credit cardreaders, voice or facial recognition features, retinal scanners orfingerprint scanners to name a few.

In some embodiments, the supplemental optical transceiver 22, or thesupplemental transmission/reception device 48 may be attached to a coveror protector, about the back, top or the perimeter of a personalelectronic device 12, to provide a streamlined appearance whilesimultaneously enhancing the functionality and/or flexibility of thepersonal electronic device 12.

In some embodiments, a bubble reflective surface may be positionedproximate to, or in covering relationship relative to, the LED lightsource 30 and/or flash diode. The bubble or other reflective device mayfocus light emitted from the light emitting diodes 30 for use in theembedded pulsed light communication/data transfer network/system 14. Insome embodiments the bubble or other reflective device may focus lightin an upward direction as opposed to a diffuse transmission direction.

In some embodiments, alternative configurations of supplementaltransmission/reception devices 48 may be used to enhance the operationalperformance capabilities of a personal electronic device 12 to provide adesired communication or transmission speed or rate. For example,transmission of text messages, or surfing the Internet, may requiredevices having different configurations to provide the desired level ofperformance.

In some embodiments, the focusing element 32 may be a reflector whichmay be conical, parabolic, or any other shape as desired by anindividual to enhance the reception of signals by a photodetector 26 orto record images by a camera 24. The focusing element 32 will in someembodiments additionally enhance the transmission of light from a lightsource such as an LED light source 30.

In some embodiments, the focusing element 32 may be affixed to, orintegral with, the personal electronic device 12. In other embodimentsthe focusing element 32 may be directly connected to a personalelectronic device 12 by attachment of the focusing element 32 to apersonal electronic device 12 proximate to a photodetector 26, LED lightsource 30, and/or camera 24. In other embodiments, the focusing element32 may be indirectly connected to the personal electronic device 12, byattachment of the connecting member 34 of the supplemental opticaltransceiver 22 and/or the supplemental transmission/receptionamplification device 48 with the receiving port 35 of the personalelectronic device 12.

In other embodiments, the connection member 34 may be engaged to one endof an electrical cord or connector 42 and the focusing element 32,supplemental optical transceiver 22 and/or the supplementaltransmission/reception amplification device 48 may be engaged to theopposite end of the electrical cord/connector 42.

In some embodiments, the electrical cord/connector 42 comprisesflexible, resilient shaping qualities which in turn may permit theelectrical cord/connector 42 to function in a manner similar to asnorkel for manipulation into a desired shape and direction. In someembodiments, the electrical cord/connector 42 may be enclosed within asegmented metal sheath which permits repeated shaping and retention ofthe electrical cord/connector 42 in a desired configuration/position. Itshould be noted that many alternative mechanical elements may be used toprovide the electrical cord/connector 42 with the resiliently flexibleshaping qualities as will be apparent to a person of ordinary skill inthe art. In addition, a sheath for the electrical cord/connector 42 isnot required to be formed of metal and may be formed of alternativematerials, composite materials, and combinations of materials providedthat the essential functions, features, and attributes as describedherein are not sacrificed.

In some embodiments, the electrical cord/connector 42 may includepivoting or rotational elements on either end or at any desire locationthere between to permit adjustable rotation of the focusing element 32,supplemental optical transceiver 22, or the supplementaltransmission/reception amplification device 48 relative to theconnection member 34. In some embodiments, the portion of the electricalcord/connector 42 adjacent to the focusing element 32, supplementaloptical transceiver 22, and/or the supplemental transmission/receptionamplification device 48 may include an adjustable, rotatable pivotingdevice or head to permit manipulation of a feature such as aphotodetector 26, camera 24, light source 28, LED light source 30,focusing element 32, microphone 46 and/or speaker 44 to be manipulatedinto any desired direction. In some embodiments the electricalcord/connector 42 may permit an individual to grasp a component, thesupplemental optical transceiver 22 and/or the supplementaltransmission/reception amplification device 48 in order to point thesame in any desired direction.

In some embodiments, the hosting customer software application 38functions to temporarily interrupt and disable the initiation of aspecific execute software command on the personal electronic device 12for a designated component such as a camera 24, microphone 42, textmessage, cellular transmission, video recording, or other recordingfunction to name a few.

In other embodiments, the hosting customer software application 38alternatively or simultaneously may function to temporarily interrupt,terminate, and disable an active specific software command or functionon the personal electronic device 12 for a designated component such asa camera 24, microphone 42, text message, cellular transmission, videorecording or other recording function to name a few.

In some embodiments, the hosting customer software application 38initiates a termination/disable command to an active function orcomponent of a personal electronic device 12 overriding the internalpersonal electronic device 12 component or function internal software.

In some embodiments the hosting customer software application 38 doesnot override the entire personal electronic device 12 operating system,except to the extent that a capability or function of a prohibitedcomponent is temporarily blocked or terminated, preventing executionduring the period of time when the personal electronic device 12 islocated within a restricted area within a hosting customer facility.

It should be noted that the hosting customer software application 38 maybe customized to block or terminate any type of feature or function of apersonal electronic device 12 for a designated area. For example, in arestroom the camera 24 and video recording functions may be disabledleaving text messaging or cellular communications in an operationalstatus. In a research and development laboratory video recording, camera24, microphone 42, cellular telephone, and text messaging functions allmay be disabled. Therefore, specific features and/or components of apersonal electronic device 12 may be blocked or terminated dependent onthe area of the hosting customer facility the personal electronic device12 is located within.

Referring to FIG. 1, in some embodiments, a personal electronic device12 may receive a download represented by arrow 52, of a pulsed lightinterface software application 16 to provide the personal electronicdevice 12 with pulsed light communication capabilities designated byarrow 54. The pulsed light communication signals 18 are transmitted bythe light emitting diode light fixture 20.

Referring to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, supplemental opticaltransceiver 22 is constructed and arranged for interface and electricalcommunication with a personal electronic device 12. Supplemental opticaltransceiver 22 may receive and may transmit pulsed light communicationsignals 18 as designated by arrow 54 to or from light emitting diodelight fixture 20.

In some embodiments, FIG. 1 shows personal electronic device 12 indirect communication with an embedded pulsed light communication system14 through a light emitting diode light fixture 20. In some embodiments,FIG. 2 shows supplemental optical transceiver 22 interfaced withpersonal electronic device 12 where supplemental optical transceiver 22is in communication with an embedded pulsed light communication system14 through a light emitting diode light fixture 20.

Referring to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the personal electronic device12 is in communication for transmission or receipt of pulsed lightcommunication signals 18, represented by arrow 54, to and from hostingcustomer software application 38 as communicated from light emittingdiode light fixture 20. In an alternative embodiment the supplementaloptical transceiver 22 is shown in phantom line. In at least oneembodiment as depicted in FIG. 3, the transmission of a pulsed lightcommunication signal 18 representative of an impermissible recording,transmission or communication is blocked, as represented by line 56. Theblockage of transmission 18 generally occurs within a processorincluding software as integral with personal electronic device 12 and/orsupplemental optical transceiver 22. Alternatively, the disabling of thetransmission 18 may occur within a processor including software asintegral with supplemental transmission/reception amplification device48.

Referring to FIG. 4, in one embodiment, a supplemental opticaltransceiver 22 is shown for engagement with a personal electronic device12. In addition, in one embodiment as depicted in FIG. 4 thesupplemental transmission/reception amplification device 48 may beelectrically coupled to the supplemental optical transceiver 22.Alternatively, the supplemental transmission/reception amplificationdevice 48 may be directly connected to personal electronic device 12 bythe interface of connection member 34 with receiving port 35.

Referring to FIG. 5, the at least one embodiment an individual holding apersonal electronic device is shown communicating with the embeddedpulsed light communication network/system 14 through the transmission ofpulsed light communication signals 18 to and from an LED light fixture20.

In a first alternative embodiment, a function disabler system comprisesa personal electronic device, the personal electronic device comprisingat least one component, the personal electronic device furthercomprising a processor comprising pulsed light communication software,the pulsed light communication software being constructed and arrangedto enable receipt and transmission of pulsed light communicationsignals, the pulsed light communication signals having a wavelength inthe visible spectrum, the processor further comprising hosting customersoftware, the at least one pulsed light communication signals comprisingan instruction signal, the hosting customer software being constructedand arranged to process the instruction signal, where the hostingcustomer software processes the instruction signal and disables the atleast one component when the personal electronic device is positioned ina designated secure area.

In a second alternative embodiment according to the first embodiment,the at least one component is selected from the group consisting of acamera, microphone, speaker, photodetector, light source, LED lightsource, text message communication device, video recording device, andaudio recording device and combinations thereof.

In a third alternative embodiment according to the second embodiment,the function disabler system further comprises a supplemental opticaltransceiver.

In a fourth alternative embodiment according to the third embodiment,the personal electronic device further comprises a receiving port.

In a fifth alternative embodiment according to the fourth embodiment,the supplemental optical receiver further comprises a connection member.

In a sixth alternative embodiment according to the fifth embodiment, thesupplemental optical transceiver comprises a supplemental receivingport.

In a seventh alternative embodiment according to the sixth embodiment,the function disabler system further comprises a supplementaltransmission device and the supplemental transmission device comprises asupplemental connection member which is constructed and arranged forengagement to the supplemental receiving port.

In an eighth alternative embodiment according to the third embodiment,the supplemental optical transceiver further comprises a focusingelement.

In a ninth alternative embodiment according to the third embodiment, thefunction disabler system further comprises a supplemental transmissiondevice.

In a tenth alternative embodiment, according to the ninth embodiment,the supplemental transmission device comprises an electrical cord.

In an eleventh alternative embodiment according to the tenth alternativeembodiment, the electrical cord is resiliently flexible.

In a twelfth alternative embodiment according to the second alternativeembodiment the personal electronic device further comprises a focusingelement.

In a thirteenth alternative embodiment according to the twelfthalternative embodiment, the personal electronic device comprises a back,a side, and a top, wherein the supplemental optical transceiver isengaged to one of the back, the side, and the top of the personalelectronic device.

In a fourteenth alternative embodiment according to the firstalternative embodiment the function disabler system further comprises asupplemental transmission device.

In a fifteenth alternative embodiment according to the fourteenthalternative embodiment the supplemental transmission device comprises anelectrical cord.

In a sixteenth alternative embodiment according to the fifteenthalternative embodiment the electrical cord is resiliently flexible.

In a seventeenth alternative embodiment according to the fourteenthalternative embodiment the supplemental transmission device comprises atleast one supplemental component, the supplemental component beingselected from the group consisting of a camera, microphone, speaker,photodetector, light source, LED light source, text messagecommunication device, video recording device, and audio recording deviceand combinations thereof.

In an eighteenth alternative embodiment according to the secondalternative embodiment the function disabler system further comprises atleast one light emitting diode light fixture.

In a nineteenth alternative embodiment according to the eighteenthalternative embodiment the at least one light emitting diode lightfixture generates the pulsed light communication signals and theinstruction signal.

In a twentieth alternative embodiment according to the nineteenthalternative embodiment the at least one light emitting diode lightfixture comprises a light fixture identifier, the light fixtureidentifier being embedded in the pulsed light communication signals orthe instruction signal.

This completes the description of the preferred and alternateembodiments of the invention. Those skilled in the art may recognizeother equivalents to the specific embodiment described herein whichequivalents are intended to be encompassed by the claims attachedhereto.

The above disclosure is intended to be illustrative and not exhaustive.This description will suggest many variations and alternatives to one ofordinary skill in this art. The various elements shown in the individualfigures and described above may be combined or modified for combinationas desired. All these alternatives and variations are intended to beincluded within the scope of the claims where the term “comprising”means “including, but not limited to”.

These and other embodiments which characterize the invention are pointedout with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and forming a parthereof. However, for further understanding of the invention, itsadvantages and objectives obtained by its use, reference should be madeto the drawings which form a further part hereof and the accompanyingdescriptive matter, in which there is illustrated and describedembodiments of the invention.

I claim:
 1. A function disabler system comprising: a) a personalelectronic device, said personal electronic device comprising a personaldevice processor and at least one communication capability, saidpersonal device processor receiving pulsed light communication software,said personal device processor recognizing at least one receivedpersonal device pulsed light communication signal, said at least onereceived personal device pulsed light communication signal being emittedin a wavelength in the visible spectrum, said wavelength in the visiblespectrum comprising a plurality of rapid flashes of light, said rapidflashes of light having a frequency which is not observable to anindividual, said at least one received personal device pulsed lightcommunication signal comprising a personal device signal identifier; b)a supplemental optical transceiver, said supplemental opticaltransceiver being releasably connectable to, and in communication with,said personal electronic device, said supplemental optical transceivercomprising at least one supplemental transceiver photodetector incommunication with said personal device processor, said at least onesupplemental transceiver photodetector being constructed and arrangedfor receipt of said at least one received personal device pulsed lightcommunication signal; and c) a hosting customer facility, said hostingcustomer facility having at least one area, said at least one areahaving at least one hosting customer facility optical transceiver, eachof said at least one hosting customer facility optical transceiverhaving a plurality of hosting customer facility light emitting diodes,at least one hosting customer facility optical transceiver photodetectorand a hosting customer facility optical transceiver processor, saidhosting customer facility optical transceiver processor activating saidplurality of hosting customer facility light emitting diodes generatingsaid at least one received personal device pulsed light communicationsignal, said at least one received personal device pulsed lightcommunication signal including a hosting customer facility functiondisabling instruction signal, said hosting customer facility functiondisabling instruction signal being received by said supplemental opticaltransceiver located within said at least one area, said hosting customerfacility function disabling instruction signal disabling said at leastone communication capability within said at least one area when saidpersonal electronic device is located in said at least one area.
 2. Thefunction disabler system according to claim 1, said personal electronicdevice further comprising personal electronic device memory, saidpersonal electronic device memory storing said pulsed lightcommunication software, said at least one received personal devicepulsed light communication signal comprising a destination signalidentifier and an origin signal identifier, said supplemental opticaltransceiver further comprising at least one supplemental opticaltransceiver light emitting diode in communication with said personaldevice processor, said at least one supplemental optical transceiverlight emitting diode being constructed and arranged to emit at least onepersonal device pulsed light transmission signal, said at least onepersonal device pulsed light transmission signal being in a wavelengthin the visible spectrum, said wavelength in the visible spectrumcomprising a plurality of rapid flashes of light, said rapid flashes oflight having a frequency which is not observable to an individual, saidat least one area having a plurality of hosting customer facilityoptical transceivers, and each of said plurality of hosting customerfacility optical transceivers having hosting customer facility opticaltransceiver memory, said hosting customer facility optical transceivermemory having hosting customer facility function disabling softwaregenerating said hosting customer facility function disabling instructionsignal.
 3. The function disabler system according to claim 2, said atleast one received personal device pulsed light communication signalfurther comprising a last transmission address signal identifier.
 4. Thefunction disabler system according to claim 3, wherein at least one ofsaid hosting customer facility optical transceivers receives said atleast one personal device pulsed light transmission signal.
 5. Thefunction disabler system according to claim 4, wherein said hostingcustomer facility optical transceiver processor stores said personaldevice signal identifier on said hosting customer facility opticaltransceiver memory.
 6. The function disabler system according to claim5, said personal electronic device further comprising a receiving port.7. The function disabler system according to claim 6, said supplementaloptical transceiver further comprising a connector releasably engaged tosaid receiving port.
 8. The function disabler system according to claim7, said supplemental optical transceiver further comprising a focusingelement.
 9. The function disabler system according to claim 2, whereineach of said at least one hosting customer facility optical transceivershas a facility optical transceiver identifier, said facility opticaltransceiver identifier being embedded in said at least one receivedpersonal device pulsed light communication signal or said hostingcustomer facility function disabling instruction signal.
 10. Thefunction disabler system according to claim 9, said function disablersystem further comprising at least one relay optical transceiver, saidat least one relay optical transceiver having at least one relay opticaltransceiver processor, a plurality of relay light emitting diodes incommunication with said at least one relay optical transceiverprocessor, and at least one relay optical transceiver photodetector incommunication with said at least one relay optical transceiverprocessor, said at least one relay optical transceiver photodetectorbeing constructed and arranged for receipt of said at least one receivedpersonal device pulsed light communication signal, wherein said at leastone received personal device pulsed light communication signal and saidat least one personal device pulsed light transmission signal includepackets of data, said at least one relay optical transceiver processorhaving a relay optical transceiver location identifier, said at leastone relay optical transceiver processor comparing said destinationsignal identifier to said relay optical transceiver location identifier,said at least one relay optical transceiver processor replacing saidlast transmission address signal identifier with said relay opticaltransceiver location identifier as an updated last transmission addresssignal identifier when said destination signal identifier is differentfrom said relay optical transceiver location identifier, and re-transmitsaid at least one received personal device pulsed light communicationsignal, or accepts said at least one received personal device pulsedlight communication signal when said destination signal identifier isthe same as said relay optical transceiver location identifier.
 11. Thefunction disabler system according to claim 10, said at least onecommunication capability having at least one component, said at leastone component being selected from a group consisting of a camera, amicrophone, a speaker, a light source, a video recording device, and anaudio recording device and combinations thereof.
 12. The functiondisabler system according to claim 11, said hosting customer facilityhaving at least one second area, said at least one second area having aplurality of said hosting customer facility optical transceivers,wherein at least one of said plurality of hosting customer facilityoptical transceivers located in said at least one second area transmitsaid at least one received personal device pulsed light communicationsignal for receipt by said supplemental optical transceiver locatedwithin said at least one second area and wherein said hosting customerfacility function disabling instruction signal activates said hostingcustomer facility function disabling software within said at least onesecond area disabling said at least one communication capability withinsaid at least one second area, when said personal electronic device islocated in said at least one second area.